Extermination of goblins, subjugation of forest wolves, collection of Kalkia grass, and escorting of traveling merchants. A number of quests of many varieties could be seen plastered all over the quest boards, with varying rewards matching their difficulties.
Grey and Yuna stood in front of those boards, thinking deeply, both with indecisive expressions brooding over their faces. They looked left, right, up, and down, but their expressions didn't change a single bit.
It has been a couple of weeks since Grey and Yuna visited the church and in that considerable amount of time, their routine has been the same. It was also because of it that Grey has drawn closer to breaking through a higher blacksmith rank.
"There's none, huh..." ［Grey］
"Un. None at all..." ［Yuna］
A lengthy and disappointed sigh left the mouth of the two as they gave the quest boards a final look. The quests there were just too bland for their taste. Not even one caught their interest as they have done all of them before. It was a routine which had been going on for the past few days.
The most interesting one that they haven't taken yet was bandit subjugation, but that was taken by another party before they even had the chance. It was disappointing but there was nothing they could do with it.
Creak
The side door towards the office opened, catching Grey and Yuna's attention. Soon after, two familiar figures walked out of the said door. One was a gray-haired man and the other was a blonde elf. Two people they knew too well.
"Miss Aria! Mister Kris! You're back!" ［Yuna］
Those two figures were none other than the newlyweds who had just returned from their honeymoon. Compared to before, they looked more refreshed and happier. They weren't bantering as well which was a nice change of pace.
Excitedly, Yuna rushed towards the two, giving Aria a big and tight embrace. If it weren't for their different hair and eye colors, one could easily mistake them as sisters. After all, not only were they both elves, they were both great beauties as well. Truly a sight to behold.
"Good to see you again, Mister Kris, Miss Aria. It's been some time. So... How was your honeymoon?" ［Grey］
"You brat... Do you really have to ask that...? There's this something called 'privacy', you know? You should learn it sometime." ［Kris］
An irritated tone came out of Kris' mouth but his lips were arched and he was smiling. He extended his hand towards Grey and the latter replied in kind for a handshake. It may not be as intimate as the girls, but a greeting is still a greeting.
"Anyway, are you two picking a quest or something?" ［Kris］
"Well, sort of. But as you can see... There really isn't much to pick from. All that's left are lower ranked quests..." ［Grey］
Kris' eyes followed Grey's towards the quest boards, nodding in agreement after a quick scan. Even he, an A-ranker, would find such things quite boring. What more of an S-ranker like Grey and Yuna? It would have been even more boring.
"How about you, Mister Kris? Since you came out from the inner sections, I assume that you were called by the Guildmaster?" ［Grey］
"Nah, it's the opposite. We were the ones who headed there to report our return. That old man's gonna scold us if we don't... It's actually quite a pain." ［Kris］
"Ahh, you did mention that before... By the way..." ［Grey］
Grey was really paying attention to his conversation with Kris, but even then, he couldn't avoid looking at Aria from time to time. Even now, his eyes were locked on her, and Kris' eyes followed suit after him.
"Miss Aria feels a little bit different, doesn't she?" ［Aria］
Ever since he saw Aria, something has felt off about her. He thought of the usual things a woman would change subtly like her hairstyle, fingernails, and the like but it was about the same as he remembered. He couldn't put his finger into it.
"Hmm... Now that Grey mentions it, Miss Aria does feel different..." ［Yuna］
And hearing Grey, Yuna also realized the different aura about Aria, all the while still hugging her. The one subjected to the two's stares could only smile brightly, waiting for the two to figure it out.
"Don't tell me... Is Miss Aria pregnant?!" ［Yuna］
"No, I'm not!" ［Aria］
"Eh? Really? You aren't?" ［Yuna］
"No, I'm really not, you silly girl!" ［Aria］
But well, such a mystery was quickly broken and turned into a comedy bit when Yuna asked such a peculiar question. She was wearing a very innocent yet shocked face too while she was at it, making Aria flustered a little.
Meanwhile, Grey continued to think about what was different about her, but even after a minute, he still couldn't figure it out. The answer was only revealed when Grey finally used his eyes to see the truth. It was then that everything finally made sense.
"Hahaha, so that was it! Miss Aria, congratulations on reaching A-rank!" ［Grey］
"Waah～! Really?! Miss Aria, congratulations!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! Looks like we really can't hide it too long with you two. Thank you!" ［Aria］
Not only her demeanor, Aria's aura was on another level. She may not be on par with Kris yet, an A-ranker is still an A-ranker. If she wanted to, destroying a town or two wouldn't be much of a problem.
But a complete contrast to the four who were wearing content smiles, the nearby adventurers were only shocked at the news. After all, A-rankers doesn't even number a hundred in the whole world. Now, Galderia branch's Adventurers' Guild line-up has become even more ridiculous.
"Hey! Did you hear that, the Bloody Eagle's reached A-rank!"
"What?! They're surely just joking, right?"
"What do you mean? Do you even hear yourself? It's the heroes, so it must be true!"
"That's right! As expected of the Ash Lion's partner!"
Rumors quickly spread like wildfire inside the guild as soon as they heard the news. Even those who were working were forced to stop just to listen to it. After all, who would want to miss such a juicy topic?
It was only then that Grey and Yuna realized their mistakes. They were so caught up with Aria's breakthrough that they totally forgot that they weren't the only ones in the guild. But even when they felt sorry, there was another thing which caught their attention even more.
"Bloody Eagle? Ash Lion?" ［Yuna］
"Urk!" ［Kris］
"Ah!" ［Aria］
Kris and Aria flinched as soon as they heard the name, a cringing expression on their face which looked like they wanted to escape. It didn't take long for the other two to realize what those words meant.
"Mister Kris, Miss Aria, are those your nicknames?! So cool!" ［Yuna］
Yes, it was in fact their nicknames. A flustered expression was painted on their faces as Yuna looked at them with such innocent admiration and excitement. Meanwhile, Grey could only sympathize with the embarrassment they felt.
Nicknames were a trademark for well-known adventurers in the guild, and as soon as they reached B-rank, such nicknames would become official aliases within the guild itself, increasing their popularity.
But just because those nicknames were what made them famous, not all high-rankers appreciate such aliases. Some were just poor victims of their circumstances. In the group of four, three of them were victims of such a scheme. Only one was excited over getting her own.
"Uh... Umm... Yuna, Grey, why don't we head outside for now? Let's celebrate this, shall we? I know a great place!" ［Aria］
"Really?! Then what are we waiting for?! Let's go!" ［Yuna］
In a desperate attempt to change the topic and escape the curious stares of the crowd, Aria quickly invited Grey and Yuna out to a celebratory meal. She just had breakfast a couple hours ago and wasn't even hungry but it was the only way she could quickly think of.
Meanwhile, Grey was also a little concerned about a certain something about Aria's status screen. It wasn't only her combat related status which had risen. Another number, namely, the age, has also risen by one. Aria's birthday has just passed.
Such thoughts in their minds, the group of four exited the guild and headed out to the busy streets. Yuna's expressions were even brighter than the morning sun as she hummed to herself beside Aria, only happy thoughts filling her mind.
"No... No way..." ［Yuna］
Well, it was all happy thoughts until they arrived at the place Aria was talking about. It may be because of their bad luck, but the place was closed down due to renovations. The happy Yuna quickly became gloomy in just a fraction of a second.
She was sad that they couldn't celebrate Aria's breakthrough, very sad. It wasn't because she was looking forward to the food, no, not at all. What kind of menace would think of such a thing? Yuna was a pure lady, after all.
Of course, Aria didn't intend to raise Yuna's hopes up only to bring it back down towards bedrock bottom. After all, she and Kris had just returned to the city early in the morning and headed straight to the guild. They didn't know the place was closed for renovations.
"That's a shame... Looks like we won't be celebrating today..." ［Aria］
"Well, the place is quite old, after all. It's just about time they renovate it. Still... Our luck is quite bad, isn't it? Where are we going to stay now?" ［Kris］
Yuna only became gloomier with the words of the two. And once again, I repeat, it isn't because she was looking forward to the food. It was because she was sad Aria and Kris don't have an inn to stay at anymore. Yep, that's the only reason and nothing else.
'Haah... Really, what am I going to do with this girl?' ［Grey］
Thought Grey as he sighed inwardly, shaking his head a little bit. Thankfully, he had quickly thought up a plan to continue their plans. He also wants to celebrate Aria's breakthrough and birthday, after all.
"Then, how about we celebrate at our place? If it's food you're worried about, then we could just cook for you." ［Grey］
"Grey, that's a great idea!" ［Yuna］
There was no trace of hesitation in Yuna's words as she agreed to Grey. Her mood quickly brightened to how it was before with Grey's timely suggestion. Now, she was humming once again, dreaming about what was about to come.
As for Kris and Aria, they could only chuckle and giggle to themselves as they watched the silver-haired elf skip steps so joyfully as she doesn't have a single problem in the world. It was an entertaining sight to see.
"Are you sure about this, Grey? We ain't going to be holding back." ［Kris］
"What's there to worry about? Who do you think you're talking to?" ［Grey］
"Hahaha, right! I totally forgot! I can't believe I was worried over nothing!" ［Kris］
A hearty laughter echoed in the air as Kris once again remembered who he was talking to. After all, they were one of the best cooks he has ever met. People who even head chefs of royalty and nobility hold in high regards.
"Then, I'll leave everything to you two!" ［Kris］
Everything now settled, Grey and Yuna led Kris and Aria into their home. It was quite the far journey from their previous spot, but with the stamina of high-rankers, none of them were even remotely exhausted. Rather, they even enjoyed the walk as they chatted merrily with each other.
A few minutes of walking later, a familiar silhouette could be seen over the distance, standing alone in such a spacious area. It was big, beautiful, and one many people would absolutely dream of. It was Grey and Yuna's home.
"Fweee～! That's one nice home, isn't it?" ［Kris］
"Oh, how beautiful..." ［Aria］
Praises were sung as soon as Kris and Aria saw the beautiful house before them, their amazement only grew when they entered, seeing how beautiful and furnished the interior was. The eyes of the two looked left and right with curiosity.
While the furniture was expensive and luxurious, it was not too overbearing like those in noble houses they've been in. It was one which they could fully relax and let loose. A warm and comfortable house was what it was.
"Please make yourselves at home!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu, thank you!" ［Aria］
As Kris and Aria explored the house, Grey and Yuna swiftly headed to the kitchen, taking out loads of ingredients and a number of spices. The stoves, refrigerator, sink, and all kitchen appliances were also readied for the show which was about to unfold.
"Psst. Yuna, come closer." ［Grey］
Beckoned by Grey, Yuna drew closer to the former. She made a surprised face as soon as she heard what he whispered. Looking at Aria for a hot minute before looking back and listening to Grey's plan.
Being high-rankers, Kris and Aria could easily eavesdrop if they wanted to. But of course, that was not the case. They were still decent people, after all. Though they really were curious why Yuna has been glancing at them from time to time.
"Then, can I leave it to you?" ［Grey］
"Un! Leave it to me!" ［Yuna］
Excitedly and furiously, Yuna nodded to Grey's request with a large smile on her face. She then left towards the kitchen and headed to the living room where Kris and Aria were. They were still looking around the paintings and furniture, continuing their exploration around the house.
But Yuna wasn't alone. With just a quick command, six little furballs came out of the shadows and manifested in the living room, following behind her whilst barking and whimpering a little like the little pups that they are.
"Miss Aria, can you play with the familiars for a little bit?" ［Yuna］
Her task was none other than to distract the two. It was quite an easy task. Since Aria was weak to cute things, all that was needed to do was summon the familiars. As for Kris, as long as Aria's occupied, he would also be the same.
"C-Can I?" ［Aria］
"Un! Play with them to your heart's content!" ［Yuna］
"Waah～!" ［Aria］
Sparkles and warmth filled the air as Aria looked at the little furballs, greatly tempted to cuddle with them. Her smile only grew brighter as she held Sirius in her hands, the other familiars jumping unto her, making her fall towards the couch.
The softness and comfort of the couch, along with the fluffiness and warmth of the familiars. She was surrounded by softness at all sides. It felt like she was resting on the clouds, a bright smile blooming on her face.
She has always been jealous of Grey and Yuna's familiar's ability to shapeshift. While she wasn't dissatisfied with Dianthus and the others, she still couldn't help but feel envious. But now that she was surrounded by the comfort of the familiars, she couldn't complain anymore.
Meanwhile, Kris could only shake his head in resignation, watching his wife drown in the familiar's fur. He then asked to borrow a deck of cards from Yuna, sitting down beside Aria and playing solitaire by himself.
Clop Clop Clop Chop Chop Chop Fwisshh
The sound of footsteps echoed in the air as Yuna ran back towards the kitchen. What followed after were chopping sounds as knives hit the chopping board and the sound of oil sizzling as meat was placed on the cooking pan.
An orchestra resounded in the kitchen as such sounds continued. The sound of oil, the turning on of the flames, the boiling of water, and the whistling of steam. Such sounds blended harmoniously, creating a wonderful melody.
Of course, what kind of cooking show is complete with sounds alone. There was also the wafting scent of freshly cooked rice, the warmth of the sour soup, the sweetness of desserts and dairy delights spreading throughout the whole house.
Fried rice, lasagna, spaghetti, roast beef, meat tarts, steak, curry, fried chicken, cheese and garlic omelette, and a lot more. As for dessert, there was ice cream, parfait, pudding, and fruit salad. The whole kitchen table was filled with a myriad of dishes, each of them delicious in their own rights.
A couple hours passed since they started cooking, and lunch was approaching near. Thankfully, due to the familiars, neither Kris nor Aria approached the kitchen. The whole plan was a success. A flawless victory!
"Miss Aria, Mister Kris, lunch is ready!" ［Yuna］
Dish after dish, the living room table was filled with delicious and aromatic foods, all were still hot and steamy. But rather than a small celebration, it was one which could be called "over the top". A feast for four!
"Ohh～! Now that's what you call a generous meal!" ［Kris］
"Mmn... Can we even finish all of these...?" ［Aria］
"Don't worry, Miss Aria! Let's just enjoy ourselves!" ［Yuna］
It was a needless worry. With Grey and Yuna with them, all the dishes could be easily finished in the blink of an eye. Well, even if there happens to be some leftovers, with Grey's "Inventory", they wouldn't be wasted.
""""Thank you for the meal!""""
Without further ado, the group of four quickly held their spoons and forks, quickly diving towards the food soon after. Crunches, munches, and slurps filled the air as they heartily enjoyed the meal served before them.
"Puwahh～! This would be great with some booze!" ［Kris］
"Dearー I mean, Kris, stop asking for something that's not here. That's rude!" ［Aria］
"Huh?! What's wrong with that?! Booze is great!" ［Kris］
"Booze this, booze that, should I remind you of what you did the last time you got drunk? It was quite the spectacle, wasn't it?" ［Aria］
"Ugh..." ［Kris］
Well, even if they're married, some things still never change. There was still the usual bickering and bantering from the two just like when they were still engaged. It reminded the other two of the first time they met them.
It was also worth noting how Aria changed the way she addressed Kris. While she has been calling him "Dear" quite often, she decided to do it only when they're alone, it was quite embarrassing, after all. Grey and Yuna wanted to tease them but decided to save it for another day.
The lunch continued and a lot of stories were told over the table. What happened after Grey and Yuna left, Falroe's shenanigans, and Zeke's progress in his training. Most were stories from the married couple's side.
"Fuu～! That was delicious～!" ［Aria］
"Miss Aria, can you close your eyes for a second?" ［Yuna］
"Hm? Sure...?" ［Aria］
Oblivious to what was happening, Aria heeded Yuna's request and she gently closed her eyes. The only thing she could tell was that there were two pairs of footsteps drawing closer and closer near her.
"Miss Aria, you can open your eyes now!" ［Yuna］
The moment she opened her eyes, what greeted her was a white two-layered cake filled with cream and strawberries. It wasn't as large as the one in their wedding, but it was still beautiful nonetheless.
""Belated happy birthday, Miss Aria!"" ［Grey and Yuna］
Along with the cake, a warm greeting came from Grey and Yuna. She was stunned, her eyes locked towards the cake in front of her, speechless and frozen. She felt both gratitude and surprise at that moment.
"Thank you, Grey, Yuna... But how did you know? Have I mentioned it before?" ［Aria］
"Ah, that... Mister Falroe mentioned it one time. So we thought we'd celebrate it while we're at it." ［Grey］
Of course, that was a lie. But it was a lie which was easy to believe with Falroe's doting personality over his children. While Grey felt guilty using his name, he felt in his heart that Falroe would somewhat forgive him. It was for Aria, after all.
It has been a while since she celebrated her birthday with other people aside from Kris. She was happy, in fact, very happy. The same went for Kris. He was also happy that someone treasured Aria enough to celebrate her birthday.
"So it was Dad, huh... Thank you very much, really..." ［Aria］
"Fufufu, enough with the thank yous, Miss Aria! Let's just eat already!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu, that's right! Then, I'll be cutting the cake now." ［Aria］
Prompted by the ever so excited Yuna, Aria slowly cut the cake into beautiful slices, distributing it to everyone in their small plates. Even though it was not her birthday, she was the one most excited. After all, it's Yuna we're talking about.
It wasn't just cake-eating. For the whole afternoon, the four of them played in the living room and played a lot of board and card games. They also played truth or dare a couple of times, only stopping when a lot of embarrassing secrets were revealed.
Fun, annoyance, despair, and a lot more. There were a lot of emotions which showed as they continued to play. The people whom many think of as heroes, playing in the living room like a normal group of friends. At the end of the day, they were still like everyone else, just people living their lives to the fullest.
"Oi, Grey, you bastard, that's cheating!" ［Kris］
"You're just mad 'cause you lost." ［Grey］
"Why, you...!" ［Kris］
CHAPTER 161 END